GaInP/GaAs HBT wideband transformer Gilbert downconverter with low voltage supply

A low-voltage wideband downconverter along with an integrated transformer RF balun using the 2 mum GalnP/GaAs HBT technology is demonstrated. This transformer is a symmetric type and plays a role as a single-to-differential balun. Without the parasitic between the transformer and the substrate, the transformer can work at higher frequencies. This transformer downconverter operates from 1.5 to 14 GHz with around 20 dB conversion gain and 1.8 GHz IF 3 dB bandwidth. The frequency range of the mixing operation is wide and covers the digital video broadcasting via satellite (DVB-S) bands. This mixer is therefore useful for DVB-S applications.